As Spring Festival 2026 approaches, the coastal village of Xunpu in Quanzhou comes alive with the vibrant zanhuawei floral crowns adorning local women. This centuries-old tradition, recently recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage item, offers a colorful bridge between maritime history and contemporary celebrations.
The intricate flower arrangements – crafted from seasonal blossoms in fiery reds, sunny yellows, and delicate purples – originally served as practical markers for fisherwomen working tidal flats. Today, these living headdresses have evolved into cultural symbols, drawing visitors from across Asia during the festive season.
"The floral crowns represent our connection to the sea and ancestors," explains Lin Mei, a third-generation flower artisan. "This Spring Festival, we're incorporating sustainable local blooms to honor both tradition and environmental awareness."
Cultural preservation efforts have transformed Xunpu into a living museum, where visitors can learn crown-making techniques while supporting community-led tourism initiatives. The practice has gained renewed attention this year through social media platforms, attracting younger generations to this maritime heritage.
